Mixed
Training to failure does not produce a repeated bout effect (RBE) that mitigates longitudinal fatigue or recovery differences over an 8-week period.
Training to failure does not seem to 'protect' you from future fatigue or soreness over time. If you choose to train to failure, expect similar fatigue levels to submaximal training in the long run, but potentially lower strength gains.
The indices of fatigue were largely comparable between groups, without strong evidence of the repeated bout effect.
Why this rating
Fatigue markers were measured, but the termination of failure groups and small sample size limit the strength of this conclusion.
Source
The Effect of Resistance Training Proximity to Failure on Muscular Adaptations and Longitudinal Fatigue in Trained Men
Zac P. Robinson et al. · International Journal of Strength and Conditioning · 2025
DOI 10.47206/ijsc.v5i1.393
More from this paper
- Training with 4-6 or 1-3 repetitions in reserve (RIR) yields comparable strength gains, whereas training to momentary failure (0 RIR) or near-failure (0-3 RIR) results in slightly inferior strength outcomes in trained men.Moderate
- Proximity to failure (4-6 RIR vs 1-3 RIR vs 0 RIR) does not significantly affect muscle hypertrophy (muscle thickness) in trained men over an 8-week period.Limited
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